Dental Smiles of NC

09/04/2025

With proper care, the lifespan of a denture is five to ten years. Signs your denture may need to be replaced include discomfort while the dentures are worn, sliding or shifting, cracks and broken or missing teeth. Have dentures regularly inspected at our office to keep them in top condition!

09/02/2025

Many everyday things can cause teeth to change color — ci******es, red wine, coffee, certain medications — and teeth naturally change color as we age because the outer enamel layer becomes thinner. Ask us about options to keep your teeth looking healthy and bright.

09/01/2025

Labor Day always signals the end of summer vacation for many of our patients, but it’s also the start of a fresh new year. Let’s make it a September to remember!

08/28/2025

Ever wondered the difference between a dental bridge and an implant? Dental bridges replace a missing tooth by attaching the bridge to the surrounding teeth using crowns or wings. They are a lower-cost solution and a good option if the patient has experienced bone loss where the tooth is missing. However, bridges cannot prevent further bone loss. They can cause strain on the neighboring teeth and may need to be replaced periodically.

A dental implant is a titanium screw placed in the bone with an abutment and crown attached. The implant integrates with the bone for a stronger, more natural functionality and can prevent bone loss. Because it stands alone, it doesn't cause strain on the neighboring teeth. A dental implant is also a longer-term solution for missing teeth with many implants lasting a lifetime. However, implants cost more than bridges and sometimes are not covered by insurance.

Deciding between the two options can be tricky, so we offer to review all information with patients and look at any insurance policies to help them make an informed decision. Book a consultation today!

08/26/2025

Untreated tooth decay can lead to problems with dental health and overall health including dental pain, infections and abscesses. If the decay is detected soon enough, it can sometimes be reversed with treatment. We can also offer sealants to create a protective barrier on your child’s teeth - preventing tooth decay. Regular dental exams are key for early detection, so book an appointment for your child today!

08/21/2025

Bonding can make stained or chipped teeth look natural and smooth again. It’s painless and can be done in a single appointment, which makes it a great way to improve your smile!

08/19/2025

Orthodontics isn’t the only route to straight teeth. Veneers can correct minor misalignments by making crooked teeth appear straighter. Ask us if this is an option for your smile.

08/14/2025

Plaque is the sticky, germy mixture that forms on your teeth every day (especially where your teeth and gums meet).

If you fail to clean off plaque, it hardens into tartar — plaque and tartar can cause an infection called gingivitis. Yikes!

Don’t worry, though, because the most effective way to stop plaque in its tracks is by brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. You’ve got this!

08/12/2025

Even if you’re wearing full dentures, it’s absolutely important to come to see us for regular dental hygiene checkups.

During these visits, we’ll check for any changes in how your dentures fit, check the health of the tissue under your denture, including an oral cancer screening, and provide oral care instruction to keep your mouth healthy and make your dentures fit better, longer.

Along with taking care of your dentures (brushing and soaking them as required), be sure you’re cleaning your gums and tongue (and any remaining teeth) daily to keep your mouth healthy.

08/07/2025

It’s even more important to visit us regularly when you’re expecting a baby because pregnancy hormones can affect the health of your teeth and gums, especially in the later stages.
Be sure to tell us if you’re pregnant, as we may suggest different treatments in different trimesters. Dental work like fillings, for example, is best done in your second trimester. While it’s best to avoid X-rays entirely in early pregnancy, there is only minimal risk, if emergency dental work is required.
By maintaining good brushing and flossing habits at home — and sticking to your regular hygiene visits with us — you’ll be on the right track for healthy teeth and gums throughout your pregnancy and beyond.

08/05/2025

08/05/2025

A properly fitted sports guard can protect your teeth from serious injuries, but unfortunately, not everyone understands the difference between a custom sports guard from a dentist and a boil-and-bite variety from a drugstore.

A custom sports guard is made to fit your teeth exactly, cushioning them comfortably and protecting them from impact.
Because boil-and-bite sports guards are made with thinner materials and don’t fit snugly to the teeth, they leave athletes more exposed to potential injuries.

There’s no question in this comparison — custom sports guards will win every time! Give us a call if you’re curious about the process or would like to have one made.